Wei Shigong

Wei Shigong was born in Baihuoshang Natural Village, Dongping Village, Chengdong Subdistrict, Dongyang City. After finishing junior high school, he could not continue his education due to historical reasons and instead learned carpentry skills to make a living. He currently runs a curtain shop at Dongyang Mall. His father, Wei Yanren, studied at a Normal University and worked as a teacher at a village-administered school; during times of economic hardship, he persisted in supporting his children’s education.

His younger brother, Wei Zhongli, completed his studies with Wei Shigong’s help and later became the vice dean of the College of Science at Shandong University of Architecture, until his death from illness.

Wei Dongyi is Wei Shigong’s nephew. The “Dong” in his name comes from his father Wei Zhongli’s Dongyang origin, and the “Yi” derives from the maternal side’s roots in Yi Village.

Wei Dongyi showed mathematical talent from a young age, won a perfect-score gold medal at the International Mathematical Olympiad, and later served as an assistant professor at Peking University.

According to Wei Shigong, Wei Dongyi’s monthly expenses did not exceed 300 yuan, and he devoted himself to mathematical research.

Wei Shigong hopes that, while focusing on academics, Wei Dongyi will take care of his health, start a family soon, and visit his hometown of Dongyang more often. Although Wei Dongyi grew up in Shandong, he has always identified as a Dongyang person and maintains contact with his hometown and relatives.